Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish with Succulent Shrimp and a Rich, Creamy Sauce
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, quick, and flavorful pasta dish, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an excellent choice. This simple yet decadent dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that coats your favorite pasta. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for a cozy evening or something elegant for a special dinner, this recipe will satisfy your cravings in under 30 minutes. Get ready to indulge in a creamy, garlicky goodness that will make you want to cook this dish on repeat.
The Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights
Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s full of flavor? Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer. This dish is a delicious combination of tender shrimp, a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and pasta, all coming together in one skillet for a simple, yet indulgent meal. Whether you’re cooking for one, a small family, or a dinner party, this recipe delivers in both flavor and ease.
Let’s Dish: About This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The key to creating a rich, creamy garlic sauce is balancing the buttery richness with the delicate flavor of garlic, making the shrimp the star of the dish. The sauce is made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious base that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent but not so heavy that it weighs you down. Plus, with the shrimp adding protein and flavor, it makes for a well-rounded meal.
Whether you’re using fettuccine, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta shape, the creamy garlic shrimp sauce pairs beautifully with all varieties. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce is both rich and flavorful, complementing the shrimp perfectly.
- Customizable: Adjust the creaminess of the sauce and add extra flavoring such as lemon, herbs, or red pepper flakes.
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful, indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Dinner
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal, offering a combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic cream sauce, and your favorite pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this pasta will become your new go-to favorite.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or any preferred pasta)
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and an optional extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you like a thinner sauce, add more pasta water. For a richer sauce, you can add extra cream or butter.
- Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Pasta Choices: Feel free to swap the pasta type; spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work great with this creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Italian
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or any preferred pasta)
- Salt (for pasta water)
The Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. If you like a bit of spice, you can also add red pepper flakes at this stage. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together gently.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the creamy garlic shrimp pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—overcooking can make them tough. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, add more cream or butter. If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add Extra Flavors: For a bit of brightness, add lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. You can also stir in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This dish is versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy it:
- With a Side Salad: Pair the creamy pasta with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all the extra creamy sauce.
- On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter version, serve the pasta on a bed of spinach or arugula.
Storing Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stove over low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Frozen shrimp works just as well, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta of your choice. The creamy garlic sauce remains the same, so the dish will still be just as delicious.
Possible to use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne. The creamy garlic sauce will coat any pasta beautifully.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce.
More Delicious Pasta Recipes
- Lemon Garlic Pasta with Shrimp: A fresh, zesty pasta dish with juicy shrimp and a tangy lemon sauce.
- Chicken Alfredo: Creamy Alfredo sauce over fettuccine with tender chicken pieces.
- Pasta Primavera: A light and colorful pasta dish with a mix of fresh vegetables and a simple garlic sauce.
- Lasagna: Layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese make this a family favorite.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect dish to enjoy for any occasion. With its delicious garlic cream sauce and tender shrimp, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or simply to treat yourself, this pasta is a flavorful, comforting meal that will satisfy your hunger and leave you wanting more. Try it today and elevate your pasta game!